hi folks, does the external balanced 383 with 8 inch balancer have a different timing tab, than other small chevs, this is my first 383, also are the 383s a big difference over 350? thanx for the knowlege.

You only need to have a matching balancer and timing cover for the timing marks to properly corrospond.
The 55-68 timing mark on the balancer hub is virtually in line with the keyway. The 69-76 timing mark was rotated about 10 degrees toward the centerline of the engine (I don't know why!). Thus, you need to have a 69-76 timing cover (for an 8in balancer) for the 383 balancer (which is the same as a 400 balancer).
About 77, the timing mark was rotated to a nearly straight up position, and so was the timing tab on the cover---------------you don't want these parts.

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Tom Parsons